Spiti Valley, the “Middle Land” between India and Tibet, is a dream destination for those seeking serenity, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.
While Spiti often requires a longer stay to truly explore its essence, a carefully planned 3-day trip from Delhi can still offer an unforgettable glimpse into its charm.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning a 3-day Spiti Valley package from Delhi, packed with highlights, tips, and itinerary details.
Day 1: Journey from Delhi to Kaza via Manali
Morning Departure:
Start your journey from Delhi in the early morning hours to maximize your time. Book a comfortable overnight Volvo bus to Manali or hire a private cab for a more luxurious experience. It’s a 12-14 hour drive, so ensure you’re well-rested before embarking.
Reach Manali and Begin Your Spiti Adventure:
Once in Manali, change to a reliable 4×4 SUV or local taxi for the rugged terrain of Spiti. Head toward Kaza, the heart of Spiti Valley. This journey will take about 9-10 hours, passing through the scenic Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass.
Stop for Photo Opportunities:
Rohtang Pass:
Famous for its snow-clad vistas, Rohtang is an excellent spot for pictures and a quick break.
Kunzum Pass:
A high-altitude pass offering panoramic views and an opportunity to seek blessings at the Kunzum Devi Temple.
Evening in Kaza:
Check-in to your hotel or homestay in Kaza, most of the Spiti Valley explorations start from Kaza. Retire well to gear up for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 2: Discover the Treasure of Spiti Valley
Wake up early to get the most out of the day. Start your day with a good hearty breakfast featuring local Spitian bread and butter tea, and go out to explore the highlights of the valley.
1. Visit Key Monastery
Start your day at the iconic Key Monastery, a 1,000-year-old Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched atop a hill. Spend some time soaking in the serene atmosphere, admiring the murals, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Spiti River below.
2. Langza Village: The Fossil Capital
Go to Langza. A quaint village that attracts one’s attention for ancient marine fossils and the valley over-seeing the Buddha statue. Stroll through the village, spend some time with the locals, and let the prehistoric amazements around you. Just walk around.
3. Hikkim: Mail a Letter from World’s Highest Post Office
Hikkim: The world’s highest post office is located here. The experience of sending a postcard from this place will be one of its kinds and makes for a good souvenir to carry back from your tour.
4. Komic Village: The World’s Highest Motorable Village
Next, proceed to Komic, the world’s highest motorable village. The view here is breathtaking, and the silence of the village is peaceful.
5. Evening Stargazing:
Return to Kaza for dinner and stargaze into the evening. Spiti’s night sky is one of those crystal-clear views that promises you the visibility of constellations, and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of Milky Way.
Day 3: Chandratal Lake and Return Journey
Rise early to visit the most picturesque and serene sites in Spiti: Chandratal Lake.
1. Exploration of Chandratal Lake
At an altitude of 4,300 meters, the crescent-shaped lake is flanked by snow-capped mountains and pristine meadows. Take your time walking along its shores, taking stunning photographs, and soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
2. Return to Manali
From Chandratal, start your return journey to Manali. The drive has some of the best scenic views, so keep your cameras ready.
3. Back to Delhi
Once you have reached Manali, take an overnight bus to Delhi, or spend the night there and return to Delhi the following morning.
Essential Guidelines for a 3-Day Spiti Valley Tour Package
Select Appropriate Transport:
The terrain of Spiti calls for a 4×4 vehicle. If you are not comfortable driving on high-altitude roads, you can hire a good driver who is aware of the region.
Plan in Advance for Altitude Sickness:
Spiti Valley’s high altitude can cause mild to severe altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and carry medications like Diamox.
Pack Wisely:
Spiti’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and basic first aid supplies.
Book Accommodation in Advance:
Spiti’s remote nature means limited accommodation options, especially during the peak season. Book homestays or guesthouses in Kaza and near Chandratal well in advance.
Respect the Environment:
Spiti is a very fragile ecosystem. Do not litter. Respect local customs. Reduce plastics to maintain the beauty of this valley.
Cost Break-up for a 3-Day Package to Spiti
Transport (Delhi to Manali and Spiti Valley) ₹8,000 – ₹10,000
Accommodation ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per night per room.
Food ₹500 – ₹1,000 per day per person
Permits and Miscellaneous ₹500- ₹1,000. A budget of ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 per person for a comfortable 3 days.
Best Time for a 3-Day Spiti Trip
The best time to visit Spiti for a short trip is between May and October when the roads are clear and the weather is pleasant. Avoid traveling during the winter months (November to April) as snow blocks access to several key locations.
Conclusion
A 3-day trip to Spiti Valley from Delhi might seem ambitious, but with proper planning, it’s entirely doable and immensely rewarding. From the serenity of Chandratal Lake to the spiritual aura of Key Monastery, every moment in Spiti promises an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to disconnect from the hustle of city life, Spiti Valley has something special for everyone.
Plan your trip today and let the mystical charm of Spiti Valley capture your heart!
FAQ’s
Is 3 days sufficient to explore Spiti Valley?
Though 3 days is a very short time to cover Spiti Valley, you can cover most of the key locations such as Kaza, Key Monastery, Langza, Hikkim, Komic, and Chandratal Lake. This would be possible if you have a well-planned itinerary with a reliable vehicle.
What is the best time to visit Spiti Valley for a 3-day trip?
The best time is May to October when the roads are open and the weather is pleasant. Monsoon months (July and August) may bring occasional landslides, while winter trips (November to April) are not recommended for short itineraries due to snow-blocked roads.
How to reach Spiti Valley from Delhi?
The most common route is via Manali.
Day 1: Take an overnight bus or cab from Delhi to Manali (12-14 hours).
Day 2: Drive from Manali to Kaza (9-10 hours).
Day 3: Explore Spiti and return.
Or you may reach Spiti via Shimla, but it takes long.
What places must be covered in 3 days Spiti Valley?
Key Highlights to visit:
Key Monastery. It is spiritual and sightseeing.
Langza Village, famous for fossils and a massive Buddha statue.
Hikkim. Home to world’s highest post office
Komic Village. World’s highest motorable village.
Chandratal Lake: Such a beautiful crescent-shaped lake.
How much will a 3-day trip to Spiti Valley from Delhi cost?
The Budget for transportation, accommodations, food, and permits can vary between ₹15,000–₹20,000 per person, depends on the mode of transportation, season, and choices made for accommodations.
Would Spiti Valley be OK for a short winter trek?
Winter trips are quite difficult with extreme weather and roads blocked with snow, especially via Manali. If you’re trying a winter trip, then it is better planned through Shimla, though you would have to travel more and it’s not accessible that easily.
What do I need for a 3-day Spiti Valley trip?
Must haves:
Warm clothes (thermal layers, jackets, gloves).
Trekking shoes.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm.
Altitude sickness medicines.
Reusable water bottles and snacks.
Is it safe to travel to Spiti Valley in 3 days for beginners?
Yes, but take ample acclimatization time as Spiti is a high-altitude region. Don’t rush and keep hydrated. For first-timers, take experienced drivers and plan break times to get accustomed to the altitude.
Which are the best travel agencies offering Spiti Valley packages from Delhi?
Some of the good travel agencies for Spiti packages include:
WanderOn
Thrillophilia
BanBanjara
Indiahikes
Reviews and inclusions before booking.
Are there direct buses or trains from Delhi to Spiti Valley?
No direct buses or trains are available. You have to take a bus to Manali or Shimla and then hire a vehicle to Spiti.
What kind of accommodations are available in Spiti Valley for a short stay?
Spiti offers:
Homestays for a local experience.
Budget guesthouses in Kaza.
Mid-range hotels with basic amenities.
Luxury camps near Chandratal Lake (in season).
Can Chandratal Lake be visited within the 3-day itinerary for Spiti Valley?
Yes, but it requires an intensively planned schedule. The first day can be reserved to explore Kaza and other local villages, while returning back to Manali and going to Chandratal Lake the same day.
How is the road from Delhi to Spiti Valley?
Roads are mostly rough and bumpy. The Manali-Kaza route has some stretches of unpaved roads, steep ascents, and river crossings. Travel in a 4×4 vehicle for safety.
Do I need any permits for a Spiti Valley trip?
Indian tourists don’t require permits. Foreign nationals need an Inner Line Permit to visit certain areas like Tabo, Dhankar, and Kaza, which can be obtained from Kullu or Reckong Peo.
What are the best food and cultural experiences to try in Spiti Valley during a short trip?
Local Cuisine: Try Thukpa, momos, butter tea, and barley bread.
Festivals: If you visit in summer, you might catch festivals like Lossar or Cham dance performances at monasteries.
Interactions: Engage with locals at homestays for authentic cultural insights.
Also read: 15 Best Things to Do in Spiti Valley on Honeymoon for Couples